Congress Called to Act on Medicare Virtual Colonoscopy Coverage

Posted by Rheta Mankin on September 15th, 2016

Nearly 140,000 new cases of colorectal cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. An estimated 50,000 people die from this largely preventable condition annually. Colonoscopies, when performed on a regular basis, enable doctors to detect and treat polyps that may someday lead to this type of cancer. Unfortunately, many people avoid this routine screening exam because of its highly invasive nature.

Colonoscopies are an endoscopic procedure that involves the insertion of a viewing device into the intestines. The procedure often requires patients to be put under and does involve a short recovery time, typically a day or so. Although the exam can and does save lives, many people avoid going in for the procedure because of its nature.

A relatively new alternative, a virtual colonoscopy, is hoped to remove some of the resistance to testing, especially for seniors and minorities. This type of colonoscopy involves the use of a CT scan or MRI to essentially perform externally what an endoscope does internally. Much less invasive, the procedure does not require patients to break from their normal routine much. While some advance preparation is required, much as it is for a standard colonoscopy, the actual testing is relatively fast and discomfort-free. Doctors end up with a 3D image of the small intestine and colon that enables them to pinpoint concerns and treat them if necessary.

While the virtual colonoscopy is hoped to break down resistance people have to routine colorectal cancer screenings, a major roadblock still stands in its way. As of yet, Congress has not approved this test for Medicare coverage. That means those who would benefit from a virtual colonoscopy currently have to pay out of pocket for the less invasive procedure. Hoping to change that, a number of patient, minority and provider organizations have joined forces to ask Congress to act. So far, that has not been done.

Aside from increasing compliance, there are other compelling factors that make virtual colonoscopies are sound choice. Studies have shown that virtual procedure cost about 29 percent less than optical colonoscopies. The virtual test has also been shown to be comparably accurate to the visual.

It is estimated than 100 Americans die daily from colorectal cancer. The majority of these patients could have been saved had routine, timely screening taken place, supporters of virtual screening assert.

People who are concerned about colorectal cancer are urged to speak with their healthcare providers. Routine exams and early detection can greatly enhance survival likelihood should this type of cancer develop.

About Author:-

Southlake Oncology, a Choice Cancer Care Treatment Center, located in the Southlake and Grapevine area, is a community-focused oncology practice that delivers exceptional care to North Texas cancer patients with a variety of cancer diagnoses and blood disorders.